The recent spell of incessant rainfall in Kolkata has caused significant damage to the verdant Rabindra Sarobar, as three large trees, including a majestic Mahogany, have toppled due to soil destabilisation. The Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA), the custodian of the expansive 192-acre lake premises, is currently assessing the condition of the fallen trees and exploring the feasibility of replanting them.
According to KMDA officials, these trees had been leaning precariously for some time, a situation exacerbated by continuous rainfall. The weakened soil structure could no longer support the weight of the trees, resulting in their unfortunate fall. “The recent heavy rains have further loosened the soil, causing these trees to uproot. While it is challenging to manually replant them, we will make every effort to restore the trees if they are in a viable condition,” a KMDA representative stated.
Environmentalists and frequent visitors to the lake have voiced concerns regarding the potential impact of fallen trees on the lake’s ecosystem. In a letter addressed to the KMDA, an environmental expert warned that such incidents could lead to contamination of the lake water, adversely affecting aquatic life and disturbing the ecological balance. The letter also highlighted the risks posed by the ongoing concretisation of the lake’s banks and the resultant soil erosion, which further compromise the stability of the trees.
The expert emphasised the importance of regular pruning and trimming to maintain the health of the trees and prevent similar incidents in the future. The KMDA has been urged to prioritise the transplantation of the fallen trees, provided they are in a condition suitable for replanting. This incident is not isolated. Following the devastation caused by Cyclone Amphan, the KMDA had previously undertaken the replantation of over 100 trees within the Sarobar premises. Currently, the area boasts approximately 11,000 trees across 270 species, contributing to the rich biodiversity and lush greenery of the park.
The authorities have been proactive in enhancing the green cover at Rabindra Sarobar, with initiatives including landscaping, the creation of green zones featuring diverse tree species, and the establishment of permanent plant exhibits. The KMDA has also initiated the development of a Miyawaki forest on the premises, aimed at fostering dense, native forests that grow quickly and sustain local biodiversity. The recent incident underscores the critical need for a comprehensive approach to urban forestry management, particularly in areas susceptible to extreme weather conditions. As the KMDA continues to work on these projects, it is essential to ensure that the balance between development and environmental preservation is maintained, safeguarding the ecological integrity of Rabindra Sarobar.
